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What should I do if my landlord shuts off my gas service?

What should I do if my landlord shuts off my gas service?

Q: What is the most common action taken by landlords against tenants in breach of contract?

The most common action taken by landlords against tenants in breach of contract is eviction. Landlords may also seek to recover unpaid rent or damages through legal action. It's important for tenants to understand their rights and seek legal counsel if they face eviction or other actions from their landlord.

Full question:

My landlord seems to be hell bent on getting me to give up my rental unit. He shut off the gas connection that runs to my apartment which is included in the tenancy agreement. I had to get an electric stove to continue with my daily activities. I still have 9 months to go before my lease expires. I don’t have the financial strength to hunt and move into another apartment. How do I deal with him?

Category: Landlord Tenant
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Arizona

Answer:

In Arizona, landlords are required to provide essential services, including gas, as stated in A.R.S. § 33-1364. If your landlord fails to supply these services, you have several options:

You can give your landlord reasonable notice about the breach and then:

Obtain the essential services yourself and deduct the cost from your rent.
Seek damages for the decrease in the fair rental value of your unit.
Find substitute housing during the period of noncompliance, which may excuse you from paying rent for that time.

If the landlord unlawfully removes or diminishes your services, you can recover possession of the unit or terminate the rental agreement and seek damages (A.R.S. § 33-1367).

You may also be entitled to recover costs, damages, and reasonable attorney's fees. Consider consulting with a legal professional to explore your options and ensure your rights are protected.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Can you sue landlord for violating lease?

Yes, you can sue your landlord for violating the lease. If your landlord fails to provide essential services, such as gas, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. You can seek damages for the decrease in rental value or even terminate the lease if the breach is significant. It's advisable to document the issue and consult with a legal professional to explore your options and ensure your rights are protected.

How do I sue my landlord for breach of lease?

To sue your landlord for breach of lease, first gather evidence of the violation, such as communication records and photos. You may need to send a formal notice to your landlord outlining the breach and your intent to take legal action. If the issue remains unresolved, you can file a lawsuit in small claims court or a higher court, depending on the amount of damages. Consulting with an attorney can help you navigate the process effectively.

Can I call the police if my landlord shuts off my water?

Yes, you can call the police if your landlord shuts off your water, especially if it is done unlawfully. In many states, landlords cannot shut off essential services like water without proper notice or justification. However, it's often more effective to document the situation and seek legal advice. You may also want to file a complaint with your local housing authority.

How long can a landlord shut off power for repairs?

In Arizona, a landlord can shut off power for repairs, but they must provide reasonable notice and ensure the outage is for a limited time. If the power is shut off for an extended period without notice or justification, it may be considered a breach of the lease. Tenants should communicate with their landlord about the timeline for repairs and seek legal advice if the situation is not resolved.

How do you deal with an irresponsible landlord?

Dealing with an irresponsible landlord involves documenting all issues and communication. Start by notifying your landlord in writing about the problems. If they do not respond or resolve the issues, you may consider filing a complaint with local housing authorities or seeking legal advice. If necessary, you can pursue legal action for breaches of the lease agreement.